Liposomal Encapsulation Delivers Medications More Efficiently

By Jody Leach


Drugs used to fight disease typically target specific physical systems or organs. Intravenous drips and injections are the most directly effective delivery method, transferring those medications directly to the blood. Orally administered drugs face degradation from the substances that accompany normal digestion. Liposomal encapsulation creates a protective bubble that wards off acids, while encouraging absorption.

Medical scientists first became aware of this process than fifty years ago, leading to the development of newer and more effective methods of drug delivery. The process is currently being used during treatment of serious conditions such as stubborn fungal infections, some kinds of cancers, and even age-related conditions leading to loss of vision. While standard medication delivery methods are still predominant, the encapsulation approach is also proving beneficial.

For a medication to pass through the upper digestive tract without being dissolved, it must be protected by a safe and non-toxic barrier. The substance used to encapsulate these drugs is an organic material that closely mimics human cellular walls, making it safer to ingest. After it has been activated by using one of three common processes, small bubbles of liposomes are formed around the tiny grains of medication.

They are microscopic, and permit the medication protected inside to safely reach the bloodstream via the small intestine, where they are directly absorbed. This not only improves the overall therapeutic intent in many cases, but can also reduce the possibility of harmful side effects. Not all medications are suitable for this method of delivery, which is most effective with water-soluble drugs.

Because the process is not invasive and generates fewer negative reactions, there are immediately and obvious advantages. Liposomes are completely biodegradable, and contain no petroleum-derived compounds or other unwanted toxic substances. They easily survive an onslaught of powerful acid, and later function as mini time-release stations within the small intestine. Powerful cancer drugs administered in this way create less collateral damage to surrounding tissues.

While immediately useful in delivering medication, the process does have drawbacks. The cost of production remains high, but will very likely decrease as research into new product uses expands. There have been issues regarding seal leakage, and common oxidation may also reduce effectiveness. The half-lives of certain drugs decrease using this process, and long-term stability may be shortened. Even so, the potential benefits outweigh known negatives.

The past decade has seen a transition from strictly medical venue to include delivery of nutritional supplements and cosmetic materials. Anecdotal evidence of an increase in physical well-being associated with administering vitamins and minerals in this way are common. Vitamin C has long been touted as a natural way to combat the effects of upper respiratory infections, and this method is said to provide noticeably better results than pills alone.

Although information highlighting consumer ability to create encapsulated vitamins, minerals, and even herbal extracts is readily available, making high-quality formulations can be costly and involved, and will not effectively combat the normal issues associated with aging. As support and development of this process continues in the medical world, the public will benefit most from it being used in conjunction with health regimens that have already been proven effective.




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